comment

NORWALK, Conn. — An artist reception will open a new "Sundays at Sotheby's" series where new local art will be on display at William Pitt Sotheby's International Realty's Rowayton brokerage house.

Local contemporary artists Linda Colletta and Julia Contacessi will introduce their work on Sunday, May 1 from 4-6 p.m.

Colletta spent the first 15 years of her career as a scenic painter in the music television industry, before working to create more accessible art for homes.

She defines her style as abstract expressionism, and uses several mediums including acrylics, oils and pastels.

Colletta’s artistry involves a series of drips, washes, scribbles and what she describes as “other happy accidents,” to evoke feelings of freedom, beauty and joy.

After studying at the Parsons School of Design in New York City, Colletta now works in her studio in Bridgeport.

Contacessi, another contemporary, abstract artist, describes her process as “a combination of conscious and subconscious exploration.”

She focuses mostly on color, texture and composition, with the goal of creating an atmospheric, positive effect in each of her pieces.

Contacessi studied fine art at the Pratt Institute in Brooklyn, N.Y., and now works from her home studio in Norwalk, creating art for clients both domestically and overseas.

During the May 1 “Sunday’s at Sotheby’s” artist reception, the Rowayton office will serve as a preview stage for patrons of the CCNS Art Show & Sale, allowing all to come see Colletta and Contacessi’s work prior to opening night.

All paintings will remain on display throughout the entire month.

Both artists will be on hand at the event, which offers one of the largest and most diverse collections of original artwork in the state of Connecticut.

The show will be held June 3-4 at the Rowayton Community Center.

For more information on the artwork of Linda Colletta and Julia Contacessi and the CCNS Art Show, visit ccnsartshow.org.